As part of the CO2zero network, the GFZ heads the ‘Geothermal energy’ field of expertise. The transfer of research results and the utilisation of technological concepts from geothermal research are intended to promote the implementation of geothermal energy in the housing industry in Germany as a contribution to the heating transition. In this way, contributions are made to the implementation of the ‘Geothermal Energy and Heat Pump Act’ (GeoWG) and the ‘Act on the Conservation of Energy and Utilisation of Renewable Energies for Heating and Cooling in Buildings’ (GEG). Connectivity is established for research projects with a high level of technological maturity.

Specifically, utilities, property owners and investors are supported in the development, planning and implementation of shallow, medium-deep and deep geothermal projects. In addition to offering technical support, experts from industry and science contribute their expertise in advising on funding programmes and instruments for hedging the exploration risk.